Are You Prepared For A Hurricane?

Hurricane season takes place in the Atlantic, Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and Central Pacific from June 1 to November 30 while in the Eastern Pacific the season is from May 15 to November 30.

 A hurricane is one of many destructive natural phenomenons which occurs about 40 to 50 times worldwide each year.  Hurricanes are violent tropical storms with sustained winds of at least 74 mph. They form over warm ocean waters – usually starting as storms in the Caribbean or off the west coast of Africa. As they drift slowly westward, they are fueled by the warm waters of the tropics. Warm, moist air moves toward the center of the storm and spirals upward. This releases torrential rains. As updrafts suck up more water vapor, it triggers a cycle of strengthening that can be stopped only when contact is made with land or cooler water.

Are you prepared?   Below is a list of what you can do to get prepared for a hurricane:

• First and foremost pay attention to what is going on concerning the weather.
• Stock up your water supply, non-perishable food items and any special dietary foods. 
• Always keep your car's gas tank full.
• Have a two-week supply of your prescription medications.


• Make a plan if you choose to evacuate and a list of supplies you'll need.   
• Store valuables and documents like birth certificates and other important documents in waterproof containers.
• Prepare and secure your home with plywood to protect your windows and glass doors.    
• Make sure your pets are included in your evacuation plan and list as well.
• Start an emergency cash fund.
• Have a disaster supplies kit which should contain the following:
 

1. Flashlights and several sets of batteries for each member of the family.
2. Portable radio and batteries.
3. Drinking Water. A supply of one gallon per person, per day for a minimum of three days.
4. Non-perishable Food. A two-week supply is best.
5. Special dietary foods.
6. Non-electric can opener.
7. Prescription medications. Always keep a two-week supply on hand.
8. Infant supplies that include sterile water, diapers, ready formula, bottles, etc.
9. Mosquito repellent.
10. First aid kit including a first aid book, bandages, antiseptic, tape, compresses, aspirin and nonaspirin pain reliever, antidiarrhea medication and antacid.
11. Distress flag and/or whistle.
12. Toilet paper, paper towels and pre-moistened towelettes.
13. Camera and film.
14. Coolers. One to keep food and another to transport ice.
15. Plastic tarp, roofing paper, nails, tools, etc.
16. Plastic trash bags.
17. Clean-up supplies including a mop, buckets, towels, disinfectant, etc.
18. Water purification kit. Tablets, plain chlorine and iodine.
19. If you evacuate take the supplies above and also take:
1. Personal hygiene items such as toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.
2. Extra clothing, shoes, eyeglasses, etc.
3. Pillows, blankets, sleeping bags, cots or air mattresses, folding chairs or lawn chairs.
4. Turn off electricity, water and gas.
5. Lock windows and doors.
6. Let relatives know where you are going.